In project management, what does authority refer to?

Authority in project management refers to the ability to make impactful decisions. This encompasses the power to influence the direction of the project, allocate resources, and determine how tasks should be completed. A project manager's authority often stems from their role within the organization, as well as the confidence and trust placed in them by stakeholders and team members. When a project manager has the authority to make decisions, it allows them to effectively steer the project towards its objectives, addressing challenges and opportunities as they arise.

The other choices focus on different aspects of organizational structure or capability. While the hierarchy within the organization does play a role in defining authority, it is the decision-making capability that truly constitutes authority in the context of project management. Financial power may impact a project manager's ability to execute decisions but is not the essence of authority itself. Technical skills of the project team are crucial for project execution but do not directly relate to the authority of the project manager in decision-making processes.